The Queen's New Year Honours have been announced.

Among the locally based recipients are four who have been made OBEs - officers of the Order of the British Empire.

They are: Jarmail Singh Athwal, the Datchet based founder and managing director of Premier Decorations Ltd for services to businesses and charities.

Doctor Janet Frost, Maidenhead based chief executive of the Health Research Authority - for services to health and social care research.

Bartholomew Evan Eric Smith, Maidenhead based founder of the Amber Foundation for services to young people.

Lynne Marie Swift, Windsor based director of people and organisational development for Bucks fire and rescue service.

A recipient of the British Empire Medal (BEM)was David Alan Wilson, conductor of the Slough Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus for services to Music and Young People. 

Kulbir Brar, who has been working as a Community and Diversity Officer (CADO) for twelve years for Thames Valley Police in Slough, has also been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to community cohesion.

Kulbir was nominated for his work helping Slough to develop into a cohesive and resilient community.

He was nominated by Superintendent Gavin Wong who is LPA Commander for Slough. Supt Wong said: “I am very pleased that Kulbir has been recognised for his exemplary work. He undertakes responsibilities far beyond what is expected of him. His expertise has been invaluable during periods where community tension has risen, his active engagement with members of the community has eased these tensions.

“Kulbir is well respected and trusted, he is often the first port of call for local community leaders when there are issues in Slough.

“He has been a key driver of the response to hate crime, particularly around honour based abuse, female genital mutilation and forced marriage. “

“To improve the understanding of the local police, he has developed training and awareness packages which were adopted by other forces.

“It is very pleasing that Kulbir has been recognised for all that he does for Slough”. 

Kulbir said: “I am extremely pleased not to mention surprised, it was totally unexpected and it is very humbling to receive such an honour.

“I had to read the letter two or three times before it actually sank in."

For a full round-up of those who received honours, get your Observer this Friday, January 5, priced just 60p.